This glam festive shoe trend is the perfect alternative to high heels and it was just demonstrated by Julia Roberts and Sarah Ferguson

This festive shoe trend is ideal if you're not a fan of high heels and the Duchess of York and Hollywood star Julia are officially on board

The festive shoe trend worn by Sarah Ferguson and Julia Roberts. Seen here are both of them out in London on 29th November 2023 at different events
(Image credit: Future//Image 1:Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images for The Anti Slavery Collective //Image 2:Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage via Getty)

This glam festive shoe trend offers the perfect alternative to high heels and it was just perfectly demonstrated by Julia Roberts and Sarah Ferguson.

As we consider Christmas party outfit ideas, many of us might not be so keen to pair our favourite festive frocks with a pair of stand-out heels. For those who favour the best comfortable shoes but don’t want to compromise on glamour, there’s a sensational festive shoe trend that offers the perfect alternative to heels. Stepping out on the exact same night at different events in London, both Sarah Ferguson - mother of Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice - and Hollywood icon Julia Roberts both showcased sparkly flats at their best.

Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York and Julia de Bonville at The Anti Slavery Collective's inaugural Winter Gala

(Image credit: Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images for The Anti Slavery Collective)

Sarah, Duchess of York attended The Anti Slavery Collective's inaugural Winter Gala at Battersea Arts Centre wearing a chic black ankle-length dress with a cold-shoulder detail. The simple outfit was made that bit more festive and special with her choice of shoes - a pair of trainers in a gorgeous silver glitter colourway that were reportedly from Gucci.

Although seriously sparkly, the trainers added a fun element without being too much and the simple elegance of her dress balanced their boldness perfectly.

SHOP SPARKLY FLATS

Just visible underneath her dress in photos, we couldn’t help noticing that Sarah’s sparkly shoes had a similar striking effect as those of Julia Roberts. The actor also stepped out on 29th November in London as she attended a special screening of “Leave The World Behind”.

Julia Roberts attends the "Leave The World Behind" Special Screening

(Image credit: Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage via Getty)

Just like Sarah, Julia showcased the glam festive shoe trend in the form of a pair of Gucci shoes. Hers were, if anything, even more stand-out as she chose to wear them with a pastel pink blazer and shorts set which meant they were easily seen. 

Julia’s silver glitter shoes were low wedges rather than trainers, but this design was still likely a little more comfortable and easy to walk in than the stilettos we often see paired with occasion wear outfits this time of year. The pump design would also look fabulous in a glitter or metallic finish without the wedge and she’s delivered some serious inspiration with this fabulous look.

Julia Roberts' and Sarah Ferguson's glitter shoes side-by-side

(Image credit: Image 1: Photo by Karwai Tang/WireImage via Getty//Image 2: Photo by Dave Benett/Getty Images for The Anti Slavery Collective)

This festive shoe trend is something that Sarah and Julia are both on board with and whilst it might look quite daring, it’s a great way to add sparkle to an outfit in a very wearable way. Metallic or sparkly flats can easily be dressed up with a stunning dress or two-piece and look especially beautiful if the rest of the outfit is relatively plain. 

However, if you’d prefer to keep to your favourite comfortable jeans and a Christmas jumper this festive season then flats in metallic shades or with glitter finishes work just as well. They add a special touch to a look whilst keeping the comfort factor that you aren’t guaranteed to get with high heels. This festive shoe trend is also something that would work all year round for different special occasions or just to jazz up a very neutral outfit. 

Emma Shacklock

Emma is a Royal Editor with eight years experience working in publishing. Her specialist areas include the British Royal Family, ranging from protocol to outfits. Alongside putting her royal knowledge to good use, Emma knows all there is to know about the latest TV shows on the BBC, ITV and more. When she’s not writing about the next unmissable show to add to your to-watch list or delving into royal protocol, Emma enjoys cooking, long walks and watching yet more crime dramas!